This a contributor post that I wrote for the Portland Mom's Blog. Read the entire article HERE.

Dear Children,

This morning I think of you as I look about the kitchen. You are not here now, but there is evidence of you all around. Today there are more colorful additions to the normal food droppings that lie scattered on the floor. Construction paper hearts and colored pencil shavings accent the scrambled eggs. You’ve all been working diligently to create an outward expression of the love that you hold in your heart. Although you each have a limited number of valentines to disperse to your classmates on this one designated day in February, I am struck with how lucky I am to receive the gift of your love and affection every single day of the year.

Because, here’s the thing. I mess up a lot. I yell and lose my temper. I get distracted and don’t listen to the things you ask me. And, I’m often forgetful and misplace many of your treasured things. But, you forgive me. Every time....